After our 40-day Paleo Challenge, Ashley tells us how she did it!
Written by Ashley Griswold of Rockwall, Texas
April 2010
The Paleo Challenge was something I honestly did not try and think about too much before I went to the nutrition class. I had done a little bit of research on my own and then went to the class. If I allowed myself to over think it I started to get worried.
I started Crossfit because I was not satisfied with my body or the health of it and I was ready to try something that I knew would challenge me. Once I started working out on a regular basis and saw such amazing results in a short time - I was so excited and more motivated than ever! I have worked out in so many different ways in the past and no one addresses diet so immediately I knew I was in the right place. I had gone online to see before and after pictures of people who have done paleo. The results were incredible.
I had never really paid much attention to my daily eating habits. I always felt like I did not eat that bad. This challenge raised my level of consciousness about what I was putting in my body. I was almost operating on auto pilot in the past when it came to meal time and snacking. This diet allowed me to learn what foods I should be eating and how they affect me. I honestly have never felt better than I did on strict paleo diet.
I just took each day – planned my meals ahead of time. I used the weekend to shop and prep all my veggies and fruits for the week. I usually cooked 2 meals on Sunday to start the week. It did take planning on my part and the rest was pretty easy! During the challenge I had to attend birthday parties, sell girl scout cookies and keep some unhealthy snacks in the house for my hubby and kids which was not always easy! I did not clean my pantry – that would have been easier!
By the end of the challenge I had lost 12.5 pounds, lost 8% body fat – converted to muscle, I lost 4.5 inches in my hips and 3 inches in my waist. And, I have more muscle definition than I have ever had in my life ! I was blown away by the results! Even my skin looked amazing! I have more energy than before. I have adopted the Paleo way even after the challenge and have converted many of our family dinners to Paleo as well. I am glad I took the challenge and committed to see just what was possible with the Paleo diet!
